Woodlands Homestead, Gardens & Function Centre (Public)
Woodlands Historic Homestead, Gardens & Function Centre is a garden of rare historic, and landscape interest. In 1870 it began as the centre of a vast 98,000 acre farming enterprise from whence the first butter was exported - under the Anchor brand. The neo-Gothic homestead was built in 1875 and the many fine trees planted a year later. Camellias imported from England are amongst the oldest in the country. A tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), a eucalypt and several plane trees have reached gigantic proportions and lend the garden a dignity not often found.
Since the ownership and responsibility for this heritage property was assumed by the Waikato District Council, significant improvements to the landscape have been achieved. To one side of the house the formal totara hedged Theatre Lawn displays the New Zealand flag and together with the Croquet Lawn provides a restful counterpoint to the extensive woodland areas. A large stretch of water with a wisteria-draped Monet-style bridge lies in the centre of the garden. Woodlands is an atmospheric garden with a rich heritage. It also has a licensed cafe serving breakfast, morning and afternoon teas and lunches.
Opening Hours and Tariffs
Woodland Gardens is open 7 days a week 9am – 4pm
Woodlands Homestead is open 7 days a week 10am – 4pm (Adults $2, Students and children free)
Woodlands café is open Monday - Friday 9am - 3.30pm (kitchen 9am - 2pm), and Saturday and Sunday 10am - 4pm (kitchen 10am - 3pm).
Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: 42 Whitikahu Road, Gordonton
Phone: 07 8243687
Email: info@woodlands.co.nz
Website: http://woodlands.co.nz
Facilities and Amenities
Children Welcome
North Island